Contact: Molly Dannenmaier, 409-765-7834
July 24, 2009
Director of Marketing and Public Relations
molly.dannenmaier@galvestonhistory.org

Galveston County Historical Museum Accepts over 370 New Artifacts

In the aftermath of Hurricane Ike, Galveston County Historical Museum staff has cataloged more than 370 recent accessions to its artifact and archival collections donated by 22 individuals. The museum’s complete collection includes more than 15,000 artifacts. The items recently accessioned include photographs, Mardi Gras costumes, city directories, and a World War I uniform.

“Among my favorites is a collection relating to Isaac Cline,” said museum curator Jennifer Marines.

This includes two photographs of Cline, books, and a letter, all signed by the U.S. Weather Bureau meteorologist stationed in Galveston when the 1900 Storm hit.

The museum has also been focusing efforts on collecting artifacts related to the county’s immigration story, Marines said.

Recent donations that illuminate the immigration issue include a letter dated 1870 to Henry Runge from his native Germany as well as passports, photographs and letters pertaining to the immigration of van Riel family members in 1935 who became involved in Galveston’s shipping industry.

The collections are used for exhibitions, research, and educational programs. The museum’s mission is to further knowledge of and appreciation for the history and heritage of Galveston County. Those interested in donating to the museum’s collection should contact Curator Jennifer Marines at 409-766-2340.

The Galveston County Historical Museum, previously located in the1921 City National Bank building on Market Street, has not reopened to the public since Hurricane Ike. Although the artifact collections and exhibits were not damaged in the storm, the building’s electrical and air systems were severely damaged. County officials and the staff arranged for the museum offices and collections to be moved to a new location on the 4th floor of the Shearn Moody Plaza building at 25th and Strand. A site within that building for future exhibits is being negotiated. The new exhibit being planned will be a comprehensive story of Galveston County. It will be filled with interactive, family-friendly activities.

Galveston County Historical Museum is a joint project of Galveston County Commissioners Court and Galveston Historical Foundation.